Intimacy and Parkinson's: The Needs of Caregivers

The caregiver of someone with Parkinson’s gives a great deal of attention, time and energy to the patient. Healthy relationships demand space and distance, and couples need alone time.

Separate experiences enrich the relationship and create much-needed space. Caregivers need space and time to recharge and take a deep breath. Time apart can increase sexual needs.

Some tips on how to promote your own well-being and the health and security of your partner are:

Respect your own needs

Don’t make your partner’s needs the priority in your relationship. Yes, they do need extra care and attention, but you need to take care of you, too.

You and your partner need separate, personal time

When couples must see each other all the time due to a chronic disease, it is essential to call in a helper and take time out for yourself. Take a walk, soak in a bathtub, go shopping, read a book, or go to a support group meeting, alone.

Feeling overwhelmed? Abstaining from sexual activities is okay

Sex itself does not bring couples closer together. Physical intimacy like massaging and cuddling, hugging, or just touching are important in an intimate relationship, too. Touching activities do enhance your love and reduce your stress.